Multiple speeds confuse drivers

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The RACV and State Opposition are calling for an urgent review of Victoria's multiple road speed limits after a flood of complaints from motorists.

The high number of speed-limit changes over short distances were confusing motorists, Opposition transport spokesman Terry Mulder said.

Mr Mulder said VicRoads had failed to properly consult local authorities before introducing the new 40 km/h speed zones around schools in October.

"No consideration has been given to the adjoining speed zones, which has created this problem of multiple speed zone changes over short distances," he said. "It's terribly confusing, particularly for older motorists."

Mr Mulder urged Transport Minister Peter Batchelor to stop being inflexible, admit there was a problem and consult with local communities to fix it.

RACV public policy manager Ken Ogden said there was a need for a thorough review of speed management on roads in Victoria.

"We do think speed limits are causing a great deal of confusion for our members," Mr Ogden said.

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"Most drivers want to do the right thing but the extremely frequent changes of speed limit mean some motorists find themselves doing the wrong thing."

The push for a review of speed limits followed comments made by Deputy Prime Minister John Anderson a firtnight ago in an interview with The Sunday Age where he said multiple speed zones were confusing motorists.

Mr Batchelor denied the system needed an overhaul, explaining speed limits were chosen to suit the conditions.